Those who suffer from insomnia would be prescribed a drug called Zaleplon. It is popularly carried under the brand name Sonata and is effective in inducing sleep for those experiencing problems dozing off. It does not, however, help sustain a person already asleep and there is still a possibility of waking up during the night.
Zaleplon works by regulating brain receptors responsible for sleep and stimulates them into action. The drug works almost the same as benzodiazepines, except it is a non-benzodiazepine. It intensifies the inhibition of neurotransmitters, which in turn, prevents insomnia.
Doctors should thoroughly examine patients who currently have, or have a history of, kidney and liver diseases, clinical depression, breathing disorders, myasthenia gravis or ataxia before prescribing Zaleplon. There should be a complete examination of the patient’s current medication to check for any counter-effects the drug may have with anything the patient is already taking.
Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should be prohibited from taking the drug. There has been evidence of effects on the fetus and the baby when the drug is ingested by expectant and nursing mothers. The drug also magnifies effects brought on by alcohol and drug use, and doctors should interview their patients about their drinking and substance use habits before prescribing the medication.
Zaleplon is sold in the tablet-form and should be taken in whole with a glass of water. Crushing or dissolving the tablet may increase the possibility of side effects. The drug may be ingested either on an empty or full stomach. The drug’s affectivity rate is very high, so patients should take the drug right at this point before going to sleep. Though drowsiness is rarely experienced in the morning after taking the drug, driving or running heavy machinery is still not advised.
Other effects of the medication are nausea, vomiting, numbness and a feeling that resembles menstrual cramps. Some patients observe some effects in their hearing and speech. There could be a reduction in muscle strength and coordination. Some memory loss, hallucination, slight depression, lack of focus and restlessness are also common. There are also rare cases of allergic reactions such as breaking out into hives and rashes.
A problem that may be encountered with this drug is the possibility of the patient being dependent on it, and subsequently, withdrawal effects such as the return of insomnia and even resulting into fits. Although this is such, there are no reports of increased tolerance with a constant use and the same dosage can be used with the same effects over time.
